The City of Fort Worth is gearing up for Phase 2 of the Fort Worth Convention Center's expansion and modernization plans, which were presented to City Council on February 3.

The $95 million Phase 1 renovations were completed and the ribbon cut, in December 2025.

According to a release, the $606 million, Phase 2 will feature "a new, flexible convention building in place of the 1968 arena and modernize the existing building that has not been significantly renovated since the previous expansion in 2003."

Highlights of the transparent, four-story structure will include:

• a central tower at Main and 9^th Streets, reflecting the Tarrant County Courthouse on the north end of Main Street
• a plaza with native prairie green space connecting to General Worth Square
• terraces for outdoor events with expansive downtown views
• modern design elements including brick, limestone, copper, steel, and patina finishes
• custom patterns that nod to local culture, including carpet designs and ballroom ceilings inspired by Texas sunsets, cattle brands, and the City’s longhorn logo.
• flexible spaces and Texas-inspired design which will Fort Worth to host larger conventions or two large events simultaneously

Once complete, the expanded and modernized facility will feature a total of 257,268 square feet of exhibit hall space, 60,917 square feet in meeting room space, 74,033 square feet in ballroom space and 16 loading docks, the release says.

“The Phase 2 expansion positions Fort Worth to not only attract more conventions and meetings, but also to deepen engagement with downtown businesses and residents,” said Fort Worth Mayor Mattie Parker in a statement. “As a key part of the transformation of the southeast quadrant of downtown, the new center will anchor a hub of economic growth and higher-education partnerships, and its beautiful design will showcase the Modern West brand that has helped make Fort Worth a stand-out destination among our peer cities.”

Surveys have estimated that Fort Worth could nearly double the convention business hosted by the City with an expanded and modernized facility, the release says.

“Our customers shared their feedback, and we responded,” said Bob Jameson, president and CEO of Visit Fort Worth, in a statement. “From flexible space configurations that allow for more breakout sessions to ceiling heights required for sports competitions, the expansion and renovation will provide modern amenities and an authentic Texas experience attendees are seeking. Even within the ballroom, guests will immediately feel that they are in Fort Worth, Texas.”

The 1968 downtown convention center arena will be demolished in early 2027 for the new building. Mobilization for demolition will begin in summer 2026, with the final event in the arena planned for September 2026, the city says.

Completion of Phase 2 is scheduled for early 2030, and the center will continue to remain operational during construction.

Convention Center design is led by Atlanta-based architecture, interior design and planning firm TVS and Fort Worth-based Bennett Partners.